Shows
The IndigenistEpisode 16 - Rachael Hunt, Freedom School Co.Rachael Hunt is a member of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation and the founder of Freedom School Co.—a platform where healing meets leadership. She's the creator of The Freedom Method™️, host of The Cycle Breakers Podcast, and an Indigenous Employee Empowerment Consultant helping organizations retain and uplift Indigenous talent. Her work guides Indigenous women navigating two worlds—the modern and the medicine—with confidence, clarity, and connection.In this episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld speaks with Rachael about what it means to break cycles, reclaim identity, and build a life that’...
2025-12-1648 minThe IndigenistEpisode 15 - Jennifer Taback, Design de PlumeWhat does it take to run an Indigenous-led design agency that challenges industry norms? In this episode, Jennifer Taback – co-founder of Design de Plume – shares how Indigenous leadership and creativity are changing the world of design. She talks about building an agency from the ground up, weaving cultural storytelling into branding, and overcoming challenges with resilience. It’s a warm and inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and the power of staying true to your values in business.Please show some love to our sponsor, eSupply Canada, Canada's #1 Indigenous supply company.
2025-11-2444 minThe IndigenistEpisode 14 - Shauna White Bear, White Bear MoccasinsIn this episode, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Shauna White Bear, an Indigenous entrepreneur and founder of White Bear Moccasins. Shauna shares how a single request for handmade moccasins became the spark for a business rooted in culture, craftsmanship and community. What began in a small cobbler’s shop has grown into a purpose-driven venture determined to keep moccasin-making alive. Through every stitch, she honours the teachings, materials and stories passed down through generations while building a modern brand that brings those traditions into the future.Please show som...
2025-10-2941 minThe IndigenistEpisode 13 - Moirae Choquette, Tomato Wheels LambruscoIn this episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Moirae Choquette, an Indigenous entrepreneur and the founder of Tomato Wheels Lambrusco. Moirae is redefining the wine industry with her bold and refreshing take on the classic Italian sparkling red, blending tradition with innovation to create a unique and celebrated wine experience.From her Métis and Ukrainian roots in Saskatchewan to launching one of Canada's most recognized Lambrusco brands, Moirae shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of breaking into the wine industry, and how she built a brand that resonates with wine lovers a...
2025-03-2039 minThe IndigenistEpisode 12 - Michelle Okere, Indigenous Prosperity FoundationIn this episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld chats with Michelle Okere, the inaugural Executive Director of the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation. Michelle shares her remarkable journey from her Métis-Cree roots in Saskatchewan to becoming a leader dedicated to supporting Indigenous women, youth, and underserved entrepreneurs.With her unique perspective shaped by her upbringing and diverse professional experiences, Michelle discusses her path to leadership, the importance of fostering Indigenous entrepreneurship, and the work of the foundation in providing mentorship, financial literacy, and digital access to Indigenous communities across Canada. Join us for an inspiring conversation a...
2024-11-2535 minThe IndigenistEpisode 11 - Carey Calder, Nakanagis ConsultingIn this episode of the Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld interviews Carey Calder, a proud Anishinaabe entrepreneur and founder of Nakanagis Consulting. With over 20 years of leadership in Indigenous non-profits, Carey shares her journey from her roots in Thunder Bay to becoming a leader in Indigenous consulting. She discusses her passion for helping organizations and governments manage risk, drive growth, and build innovative partnerships, while reflecting on the cultural and personal experiences that shaped her path. Carey also touches on the challenges she faced breaking into the business world, how community values keep her grounded, her approach to overcoming...
2024-09-2345 minThe IndigenistEpisode 10 - Chad Solomon, BiskaneIn this episode of The Indigenous Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Chad Solomon, an Anishinaabe entrepreneur from Henvey Inlet First Nation. Chad shares his inspiring journey from a self-published artist to the founder of Biskane, an online marketplace dedicated to authentic Indigenous art. He discusses the challenges Indigenous artisans face, such as art fraud and limited market access, and how Biskane is opening doors for these creators by connecting them with buyers and retailers. Chad also highlights the importance of relationships, mentorship, and patience in business, offering practical advice for aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. This conversation shines a...
2024-09-0930 minThe IndigenistEpisode 9 - Sage Paul, Executive & Artistic Director and Co-Founder of Indigenous Fashion ArtsIn this captivating episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Sage Paul, the Executive & Artistic Director and co-founder of Indigenous Fashion Arts.Sage, an urban Denesuline woman based in Toronto, shares her inspiring journey and commitment to fostering and celebrating Indigenous expression in fashion and the arts. With almost 20 years of experience as a fashion and costume designer, Sage has led numerous projects, collaborating with organizations such as La Maison Simons, Ikea Canada, Harbourfront Centre, and the Art Gallery of Ontario.Discover how Indigenous Fashion Arts is redefining the fashion landscape...
2024-05-0837 minThe IndigenistEpisode 8 - Drew Denton, President of EME Utility Engineering LPIn this episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Drew Denton, President of EME Utility Engineering LP, a company specializing in electrical and mechanical engineering design services for residential, commercial, institutional, and complex buildings.Drew shares the inspiring journey of EME Engineering Inc., a company with a specific focus on renewable and alternative energy projects, including solar PV systems, Energy Storage Systems (ESS), Geothermal systems, and rainwater harvesting. EME's design staff are Passive House Canada certified, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and innovation.Discover how EME Engineering Inc. is pioneering utility...
2024-04-3037 minThe IndigenistEpisode 7 - Jenn Harper, Founder of Cheekbone BeautyIn this beautiful, honest and raw episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Jenn Harper, the visionary founder of Cheekbone Beauty, an Indigenous-owned sustainable colour cosmetics brand.Jenn shares her remarkable journey of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and community impact, highlighting the importance of Indigenous wisdom and representation in the beauty industry. From her Anishinaabe roots to the founding of Cheekbone Beauty, Jenn's commitment to making a difference is evident in every aspect of her work.Discover how Cheekbone Beauty is not only creating clean, vegan, and sustainable cosmetics but also giving back...
2024-04-2434 minThe IndigenistEpisode 6 - Shylo Elmayan, Founder of Niibin Advisory ServicesIn this episode of The Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Shylo Elmayan, the visionary founder of Niibin Advisory Services, an Indigenous-owned consulting firm dedicated to empowering Indigenous communities across Canada.Shylo shares her inspiring journey of establishing Niibin Advisory Services and her deep commitment to driving positive change within Indigenous community organizations and beyond. With a focus on strategic projects, community consultation, policy development, and professional support, Niibin Advisory Services stands at the forefront of advancing Indigenous perspectives and knowledge.Throughout the conversation, Shylo delves into the core values that drive Niibin...
2024-04-1629 minThe IndigenistEpisode 4 - Sharon Bond-Hogg, Founder & CEO of Kekuli CaféIn today's episode of the Indigenist Podcast with host Steven Vanloffeld. Join us as we sit down with Sharon Bond-Hogg, a proud member of the Nooaitch First Nation and the visionary force behind Kekuli Café, Canada's first Indigenous fast-food and coffee franchise.Hailing from Merritt, British Columbia, Sharon's journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to Indigenous business and entrepreneurship. Graduating with an Executive MBA from the Beedie School of Business, Sharon is the owner and CEO of Kekuli Café Properties Inc., dedicated to creating spaces that celebrate Indigenous culture and cuisine.Under Sharon an...
2024-02-2635 minThe IndigenistEpisode 5 - Corey Janvier, Founder & CEO Cedar Brush Site Services and JanitorialIn this weeks episode of the Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld sits down with Corey Janvier, Founder and CEO of Cedar Brush Site Services and Janitorial. Hailing from Chipewyan Prairie Dene First Nation, nestled in the heart of the Oilsands Region of Fort McMurray, Alberta, Corey's journey from social work to entrepreneurship exemplifies his unwavering commitment to community enhancement and economic development. With over 15 years of experience and a deep-rooted understanding of Indigenous values, Corey leverages his extensive network along traditional trading routes across Western Canada to drive sustainable business growth while prioritizing environmental stewardship and community investment. Recognized...
2024-02-2143 minThe IndigenistEpisode 3 - Chelsee-Marie Pettit, Founder of ᐋᓃᓐ aaniin retail inc.In this episode of the Indigenist Podcast, host Steven Vanloffeld delves into the groundbreaking journey of Chelsee-Marie Pettit, the visionary Founder of ᐋᓃᓐ aaniin retail inc. With a bold mission to redefine the retail landscape, Chelsee-Marie has carved out a significant space for Indigenous voices and values within the industry. As the driving force behind Canada’s First Department Store that is 100% Indigenous owned, Chelsee-Marie's innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to cultural representation shine through. Founded in Toronto in June 2021, ᐋᓃᓐ aaniin retail inc. stands as a beacon of Indigenous entrepreneurship, proudly housing Canada’s most recognizable Indigenous brands and businesses both in-store an...
2024-02-1230 minThe IndigenistEpisode 2 - Jason Thompson, President and CEO of Superior Strategies Inc., Warrior Engineering Ltd, and All 3 InnovationThis week, Steven sits down with Jason Thompson, a proud member of the Red Rock Indian Band, who is a skilled executive and visionary entrepreneur with over 25 years of business and management experience.As the President and CEO of Superior Strategies Inc., Warrior Engineering Ltd, and All 3 Innovation, Jason is deeply committed to Indigenous ownership and operation. These businesses have consistently demonstrated year-over-year growth. Jason's unyielding drive and opportunistic spirit have also led to the recent launch of his own Warrior Brand, featuring a range of PPE, Work Wear, and the latest addition, Warrior Apparel....
2024-02-0537 minThe IndigenistEpisode 1 - Tracee Smith, President and CEO of Keewaywin Capital Inc.On our inaugural episode, Steven sits down with Tracee Smith, President and CEO of Keewaywin Capital Inc., the first Indigenous private credit fund committed to building homes for Indigenous Peoples on-reserve. Tracee is a highly accomplished individual with over two decades of experience in both corporate and charitable sectors. She is a member of the Missanabie Cree First Nation in northern Ontario and holds an MBA specializing in Indigenous Economic Development, as well as a Masters in Finance from Queens University. With a background that includes roles at TE Wealth, Bank of Montreal, TD, and TD Securities, she has...
2024-01-3038 min
Canada’s EntrepreneurIt is inherent in Indigenous people to overcome adversity and that has helped Steven achieve what he has - Toronto - Canada’s Podcast
Did you know only 53% of the Indigenous population has some post-secondary education, while 65% of the non-Indigenous population has some form of post-secondary education? Indigenous business leader Steven Vanloffeld wants to change that. Steven Vanloffeld is the Founder and CEO of eSupply Canada, an online distributor of office, janitorial, and industrial supplies. eSupply Canada donates a portion of each sale to the Future Leaders Scholarship Program, which supports Indigenous students pursuing post-secondary education in business, economics, law, and the trades. The story of the eSupply Canada's Future Leaders Scholarship Program and its impact on Indigenous students is compelling and worth...
2023-06-2023 min
Marketing News CanadaSteven Vanloffeld (eSupply Canada)The one where Darian chats with Steven from eSupply Canada about:How Steven started eSupply Canada to drive revenue to the Indigenous community. Qualities that leaders should have. eSupply’s future development program that supports Indigenous youth. What motivates Steven as a business owner. Sign up for the Marketing News Canada e-newsletter at www.marketingnewscanada.com.–Special Offer for Marketing News Canada ListenersUnbounce can help you easily build landing pages, popups and sticky bars. Highly customizable and no coding required, anyone can get star...
2023-06-0633 min
Franchise Canada ChatsS7E4 | eSupply Canada: Supplying Opportunity with Steven VanloffeldSteven Vanloffeld was elected to his First Nation’s Council in 2016. “I looked at our government, our First Nation, and what our revenues and expenditures were, and where that revenue was going,” he says. Instead of having revenue go to outside communities and business, he challenged the big-box systems to keep revenue in the hands of Indigenous communities. eSupply was born from this thought. Vanloffeld wrote a business plan and launched it in February 2020.
Today, Vanloffeld is on the precipice of signing eSupply’s first franchisee. Moreover, he’s created an Indigenous community ownership model to stop the “economic leakage” and support co...
2023-03-2443 min
Franchise Canada ChatsSeason 7 Episode 4 | eSupply Canada: Supplying Opportunity with Steven VanloffeldSteven Vanlofffeld was elected to his First Nation’s Council in 2016. “I looked at our government, our First Nation, and what our revenues and expenditures were, and where that revenue was going,” he says. Instead of having revenue go to outside communities and business, he challenged the big-box systems to keep revenue in the hands of Indigenous communities. eSupply was born from this thought. Vanloffeld wrote a business plan and launched it in February 2020. Today, Vanloffeld is on the precipice of signing eSupply’s first franchisee. Moreover, he’s created an Indigenous community ownership model to stop the “economic leakage” and support co...
2023-03-2443 min
Native CurrentsEpisode 119On this week's episode we put our regular co-host, Steven Vanloffeld in the hot seat as he discusses why he is seeking to become Chief of his home community - Saugeen First Nation. We discuss the challenges and the opportunities from a local and national perspective.
2016-06-2016 min